Sally was a graduate of R.B. Worthy High School class of 1967 where she was a majorette in the “Shakers” marching band. She was also a graduate of Emory and Henry College class of 1972. Her career as an elementary school teacher began in Smyth County, Virginia, and she retired from teaching in Gaston County Schools at Kiser Elementary in Stanley, North Carolina. Sally attended Southern Grace Ministry Church in Mt. Holly, NC.
Sally is survived by her husband of 49 years, John David Thomas and daughter, Johnida Marilyn Thomas.
She was preceded in death by her parents James S. and Tazoni Taylor Surber and special great-nephew Brayden Cade Faile.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Tuesday, April 24 at Carothers Funeral Home in Stanley, NC and also from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM on Thursday, April 26 at D.R. Henderson in Saltville, VA.
A celebration of life service will be held Friday, April 27 at 2:00 PM at D.R. Henderson Funeral Home Chapel in Saltville. Burial will follow at Elizabeth Cemetery. Reverend Kevin Crumbley, Reverend David Mumpower and Reverend Mark Bumgardner will preside.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Gaston Hospice, P.O. Box 3984, Gastonia, NC 28054.
Online condolences and fond memories may be made at: www.carothersfuneralhomestanley.com.
Carothers Funeral Home, Stanley is honored to serve the Thomas family.
